Commentary on Leviticus 11:47

Leviticus 11:47 states: “To make a difference between the unclean and the clean, and between the beast that may be eaten and the beast that may not be eaten.” This verse concludes the dietary laws outlined in the preceding verses and underscores the importance of discernment in matters concerning purity.

Overview of the Dietary Laws

The dietary laws provided in Leviticus 11 serve not only practical purposes but also theological and spiritual ones. The command to distinguish between clean and unclean animals emphasizes God's desire for His people to maintain holiness and separation from the practices of surrounding nations.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry speaks to the profound implications of God's dietary commandments, suggesting that they are rooted in a broader call to holiness. He notes that these distinctions are a reflection of God's character and purpose for His people. He emphasizes:

• Spiritual Significance: The clean and unclean animals symbolize the sacred and the profane in the life of believers. The distinction teaches the necessity of holiness in everyday life.
• Practical Obedience: Obeying these dietary laws is an exercise in discipline and a demonstration of faithfulness to God's covenant.
• Community Identity: Being set apart through these laws fosters a unique identity for the Israelites, distinguishing them from Gentile nations around them.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes identifies the dietary laws as part of a larger framework intended to guide the Israelites in their worship and daily habits. He highlights:

• Divine Authority: The imposition of these laws serves to remind the people of God's authority and His call on their lives as His chosen people.
• Health Considerations: Beyond ritual purity, certain regulations also promote physical health, indicating an understanding of various health principles known during that time.
• Moral Lessons: The segregation of animals teaches important moral lessons about choices in life and the necessity of adhering to God's standards.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke addresses the instructional purpose of these laws and the profound symbolism they present. Key points include:

• Symbolic Interpretation: Clarke interprets the clean beasts as representative of the faithful and the unclean beasts as symbols of sin and corruption.
• Reflection on Character: The command to differentiate aligns with broader biblical principles encouraging discernment and the pursuit of righteousness.
• Foreshadowing New Covenant: Clarke draws attention to how these distinctions preview the New Testament revelation that involves both Jew and Gentile, reshaping the landscape of purity.

Theological Implications

The call to discern between clean and unclean, as presented in Leviticus 11:47, underscores essential theological concepts relevant to Christian doctrine today:

• Holiness of God: The distinction is fundamentally about the character of God being reflected in His people.
• Call to Discernment: The ability to differentiate between moral and immoral, good and evil, is a vital skill for believers, echoing the call found throughout Scripture to make wise choices.
• Covenantal Relationship: These dietary laws emphasize the importance of maintaining a relationship with God that honors His commands, portraying the relational aspect of the covenant.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, Leviticus 11:47 offers vital lessons that apply today:

• Encouragement to Study: The exercise of teaching and studying Old Testament law is crucial for understanding the entirety of Scripture and the unfolding revelation of God.
• Application of Discernment: Believers are called to practice discernment in their own lives, choosing between that which edifies versus that which leads to spiritual decay.
• Emphasis on Community Identity: In a world awash with moral ambiguity, holding fast to the distinction of being a holy people is a powerful witness.
• Enrichment of Worship: Understanding these laws can enrich congregational worship by reinforcing God’s holiness and the significance of unity in purpose and belief.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Leviticus 11:47 challenges the faithful to remember that living in accordance with God's standards involves continual reflection and adjustment. The distinctions made in the Old Testament serve as a foundation for understanding the New Covenant, where discernment remains vital for one's spiritual journey. Through careful study and obedience to God's directives, believers can honor Him as they navigate their daily lives.